Former UP President Francisco ‘Dodong’ Nemenzo passes away at 89

The University of the Philippines (UP) mourns the passing of its former president, Dr. Francisco “Dodong” Nemenzo, on Friday, Dec. 19.

GfJGMabbQAAtCBc.jfif — (Photo credit to UP)

UP announced Nemenzo’s passing through a social media post.

Nemenzo, who served as UP’s 18th president from 1999 to 2005, passed away on Dec. 19 at the age of 89.

In a Facebook post, Lian Nemenzo-Hernández also announced the passing of Nemenzo.

Born in Cebu City on Feb. 9, 1935, the family described Nemenzo as someone who “lived a life rich in thought, action, and impact.”

A renowned political scientist and Marxist scholar, Nemenzo was known for his bold and insightful perspectives on Philippine society, politics, and global affairs.

UP’s tribute

On its website, UP highlighted Nemenzo’s legacy as an academic, activist, and visionary leader.

The university noted that Nemenzo spent his entire academic career at UP.

It also emphasized Nemenzo’s key reforms and achievements during his presidency. Despite facing “numerous” challenges, he focused on “modernizing the university to make it competitive in the new millennium.”

Power of ideals and conviction

In her post, Nemenzo-Hernández described Nemenzo’s life as a “testament to the power of ideals and conviction.”

“His contributions to academia and society will be remembered and celebrated by many,” she added.

Nemenzo is survived by his wife of 65 years, Ana Maria “Princess” Nemenzo; their children and their spouses — Dr. Fidel Nemenzo and Dr. Marivic Raquiza, Dr. Leonid Nemenzo and Ruvelyn Lim Nemenzo, Lian Nemenzo-Hernández and Von Hernández — as well as their six grandchildren (Alaya, Miguel, Annika, Rafael, Anton, and Luiz), two great-grandchildren (Mila and Rafa), and his youngest sister, Gemma Nemenzo-Ver.

“He leaves behind a legacy of passion, perseverance, and principle, cherished by all who were fortunate to know him,” she said.

The family announced that a memorial service will be held at a date and venue to be announced later.

— Merlina Hernando-Malipot